Unveiling the Grandeur of the 1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40

The year 1946 marked a pivotal moment for the automotive industry as it transitioned from wartime production back to peacetime endeavors, and from this renaissance emerged the Chrysler Imperial C-40. A vehicle of distinction, the Imperial C-40 was a testament to Chrysler's resilience and commitment to luxury in an era of recovery and change. The car's grand presence on the road was not just a statement of personal success but also a symbol of America's industrial might in the post-war world. One intriguing piece of history is that this model was among the first to offer a fully automatic transmission, dubbed "Presto-Matic," setting a new standard for driving ease and comfort.

Design and Innovation

With its bold lines and commanding grille, the 1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 exuded elegance and strength. The exterior design featured fluid contours that flowed from front to rear, with pronounced fenders that gave it a stately appearance. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury with high-quality fabrics and an attention to detail that was second to none at the time. Technologically, it boasted advancements such as fluid drive transmission and an innovative "Safety Clutch." Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to more adventurous hues, with deep maroon being a particularly popular choice among discerning buyers. Among its body styles, the four-door sedan stood out as an icon of American luxury.

Historical Significance

The Chrysler Imperial C-40's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It bridged the gap between pre-war opulence and post-war modernity, influencing future designs with its blend of style and technology. Its introduction of features like the automatic transmission paved the way for what would become standard in vehicles worldwide.

Performance and Handling

The 1946 Imperial C-40 wasn't just about looks; it delivered performance that was impressive for its time. While exact figures for top speed and acceleration are scarce, it provided a smooth ride indicative of a luxury cruiser. On various terrains, the car handled with poise, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Behind the wheel, drivers enjoyed a symphony of mechanical harmony – from the hum of its inline-eight engine to the solid yet comfortable ride quality.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 typically reveled in its dual role as both a daily driver and show car. Maintenance was straightforward for mechanically inclined individuals, though some specialized parts could pose challenges due to their rarity. Overall reliability was commendable for such an intricate machine.

Fun Facts

This majestic vehicle has graced many collections over the years, including those of celebrities and dignitaries. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in terms of sales success and endurance on long journeys. Despite criticisms over its size during an era when fuel efficiency began gaining attention, many admired it for its uncompromising commitment to luxury.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 is a cherished collectible with values varying widely depending on condition and provenance. Production numbers were limited due to the transitional nature of post-war manufacturing; estimates suggest that only several thousand were produced. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to well over $50,000 at auction or private sale, with prices generally appreciating as these vehicles become rarer.

Conclusion

The 1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 stands as a monument to post-war American automotive excellence. Its blend of design innovation, technological advancement, and luxury set it apart from its contemporaries and left an indelible mark on automotive history. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, owning an Imperial C-40 is not just about possessing a piece of history; it's about experiencing firsthand the grandeur of an era defined by bold ambition and unparalleled craftsmanship.

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair-CB 27Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 31Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 18" long X 9-3/4" wide at bottom. Pair

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D-GF 18Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D., 1/2" top thickness. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal-LP 40Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Used in Cobra kit cars as trunk weatherstrip. Per foot.

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Swing-Out Windshield Seal. 3/4" High. Sold by the foot-LP 97-ASwing-Out Windshield Seal. 3/4" High. Sold by the foot

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Trunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each-MP 604-ATrunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Trunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each-MP 604-BTrunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 605-BDoor Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Antenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead-MP 959-CAntenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead. Narrow type. 1-1/4" wide X 1-3/4" long. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Cowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each-RP 100-QCowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1946 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only-WR 2703Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only. Replaces OEM #977232-3. Pair R&L